IBERVILLE PARISH, LA (WAFB) – Just after 4 a.m. on Monday, December 19, Louisiana State Police troopers began investigating a two vehicle crash on I-10 W west of Ramah in Iberville Parish that claimed the life of a 25-year-old man.

Martin Zamarripa Jr. of San Benito, TX was killed in the incident. The crash also resulted in the arrest of Juan Fernandez Jr., 24, of Donna, TX.

The initial investigation by LSP revealed the crash occurred as Fernandez was traveling westbound on I-10 in a 2015 Chevy Silverado, while at the same time, Lawford Domineck, 53, of Baton Rouge was also traveling westbound on I-10 in a 2010 International 18-wheeler. Officials say Fernandez was traveling at a high rate of speed as he was approaching the 18-wheeler.

Fernandez attempted to steer left around the 18-wheeler and struck the rear left side of the 18-wheeler with the front right side of his vehicle. The impact caused Fernandez’s vehicle to rotate clockwise and strike the guardrails multiple times.

Zamarippa was a passenger in Fernandez’s vehicle and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced dead on the scene by the Iberville Parish Coroner’s Office. Officials say Fernandez was not properly restrained at the time of the wreck and sustained moderate injuries. Domineck however was properly restrained and suffered no injuries.

During the investigation, troopers discovered Fernandez was impaired. He was placed under arrest and transported to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital for treatment. Fernandez was released from the hospital Monday afternoon and was booked into the Iberville Parish Jail on charges of vehicular homicide, DWI, reckless operation, open container, and no seat belt.